New diagnostic methods for pneumonia in older adults
Official title: Establishing and Implementing Pneumonia Diagnosis in ED Older Adults: A Mixed Methods Approach
Run by Ohio State University · NCT06092008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new ways to diagnose pneumonia in older adults in the emergency room to see if they can improve accuracy in identifying different types of infections.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Ohio State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, Ohio) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 2, 2022 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | February 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06092008 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 65 and older who present to the emergency department with suspected pneumonia.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active cancer, organ transplants, or those who are immunosuppressed may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to create a clinical diagnostic pathway for older adults in the emergency department who are suspected of having pneumonia, including its subgroups such as bacterial and viral infections. It will involve a prospective observational analysis of 250 patients aged 65 and older, assessing the effectiveness of novel biomarkers in improving diagnostic accuracy. The goal is to develop common models that can facilitate the adoption of these diagnostic methods in clinical practice.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the accuracy of pneumonia diagnoses in older adults, leading to better-targeted treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is focused on novel biomarkers, similar studies have shown promise in improving diagnostic accuracy for pneumonia in older populations.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Adults aged 65 and older presenting to the ED with suspected pneumonia defined as (1) either a physician order for CXR OR CT OR a chief complaint consistent with dyspnea; AND (2) physician suspicion of pneumonia prior to ED testing (score of 2-5 on Likert scale) Exclusion Criteria: * inability to obtain consent from the patient or an LAR * active cancer * organ transplant * immunosuppression * trauma activation * suicidal ideation * incarceration * antibiotics in the last 14 days * a separate episode of lower respiratory illness in the last 30 days
Where it's running
-
The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Michael Hill, RN
- Email: michael.hill@osumc.edu
- Phone: 614-293-6185
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
-
Respiratory Physiotherapy in Critically Ill Pneumonia Patients
This study tests whether a structured breathing and chest therapy program can change inflammatory biomarkers in adults with pneumonia in the ICU compared to usual care.
-
AI-powered CT help to guide pneumonia care
A multicenter trial tests whether using a chest CT–based AI report to guide care reduces death or need for new organ support in adults with pneumonia.
-
Wintergreen oil inhalation for shortness of breath in pneumonia patients
Hospitals will test whether inhaling wintergreen essential oil helps relieve dyspnea in adults with pneumonia.
-
Optimising Antibiotic Use for Paediatric LRTIs in Africa
This study tests whether using point-of-care CRP tests together with the PREPARE score can safely reduce antibiotic use in infants aged 2–24 months with lower respiratory infections in a Johannesburg hospital.
-
Buteyko Breathing vs Incentive Spirometry for Smog-Induced Pneumonia
We’re testing whether the Buteyko Breathing Technique can improve oxygen levels and breathe easier for adults with smog-related pneumonia compared to incentive spirometry.
-
FUNGAL-P: A score to spot fungal pneumonia early in adults with pneumonia
Aimed at adults with pneumonia, this study tests a new score to help identify fungal pneumonia sooner so doctors can test appropriately and start antifungal treatment when needed.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.